The Exquisite Flavours of Smoked Tomato and Date Confiture

When it comes to flavour combinations, few can rival the charm of a well-made smoked tomato and date confiture. This delightful spread delivers a perfect blend of sweetness and umami, striking a balance that is tough to resist. With its versatility and rich flavour profile, you'll be compelled to make this confiture over and over again. Served on a bed of hummus, this becomes a dip hard to resist

Smoked Tomato and Date Confiture - The Recipe

Ingredients

• 400g vine-ripened tomatoes (such as plum or cherry)

• 100g pitted dates

• 1–2 green or red chillies, stemmed

• 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger

• 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons rapeseed oil

• 60ml apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

• 100g sugar

  
  

Method

1. Purée the tomatoes, dates, chillies, ginger, and garlic in a food processor until smooth.

2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-reactive saucepan, then add the purée and apple cider vinegar.

3. Stir in the cumin, fennel, paprika, ground ginger, and cayenne pepper. Season with sea salt and bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Cover with a lid and cook over low heat for 10 minutes.

5. Stir in the sugar, then simmer with the lid slightly ajar for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mix will thicken to a jam-like consistency.

6. Transfer the hot confiture into warm, sterilized jars and seal with clean lids.

7. Store in a cool dark place. It can last up to three months. Once opened, refrigerate and use within a month.